In my column, I pointed out that most transit drivers in the Portland area aren’t like Kindle-reading Line 96 pilot Lahcen Qouchbane. They’re dedicated professionals. They not only not only wrestle those big machines but deflect the shrapnel of the human condition on a daily basis.

During a nearly four minute verbal boxing match, Mr. Grumpy Pass (he didn’t leave his name) accused me of making up the commendations from riders featured in the column.

“I don’t know where you invented these testimonials,” he says.

Um, actually, I didn’t. In fact, here’s a PDF of the entire database of commendations for TriMet drivers from Sept. 13 to 19. Take a gander.

A few anonymous bus drivers called to say thanks for the column, noting that it gave them a rare boost at a time when TriMet is pushing for them to pay more for their health benefits.

“We do have bonehead drivers who read Kindles,” said one. "But now we have more important things to worry about, like the fact that we are working without a contract and the company wants us to pick medical costs that we can’t afford.”

But then there was the operator that I’m pretty sure didn’t read past the first paragraph. “Another article in the paper where you’re just slamming us TriMet drivers and mechanics,” he said.

Sigh.

A caller from Oregon City (I wish they’d leave their names) said I shouldn’t be so down on the term muckracker. “I want you to rake muck on TriMet,” he said. “Keep raking.”

OK. Again, I prefer “watchdog.”

And the comments kept coming.

Martha Johnson called this morning. “I have TriMet on speed dial on my cell phone,” she said. “If I see a driver doing something stupid and out of line, I don’t hesitate to call. If see one doing something they should be commended for, I don’t hesitate to call.”